What Does it Take to Clear Independence Pass for the Season?

Tomorrow marks the much-anticipated opening of Colorado's Independence Pass. What does it take to prepare the region for CO 82's annual reopening? Take a look.

Tomorrow, May 25, at noon, Independence Pass is scheduled to reopen to the public. This is no small undertaking. Experts are brought in to conduct avalanche control so that maintenance crews can begin plowing the highway.

This year's effort was extra special. The team had to say goodbye to Jack S, who after 32 years with the Colorado Department of Transportation, has chosen to hang up his hat, or in this case, helmet. He even took a moment to autograph his helmet. Over the course of his 32 years with CDOT, Jack S. worked 12 missions on Independence Pass.

Thank you to the crews, and to Jack S., for making this happen. Colorado is the best place in the world to live. Sometimes, though, travel isn't always the easiest. Thanks to the CDOT crews, the pass will be open tomorrow!